A SCHOOL has been magically transformed into Hogwarts to celebrate World Book Day.

Staff cast their spell on Thornleigh Salesian College to make it into the famed school from the Harry Potter books over half-term.

Katie Bradley, a Year Eight pupil said: “It is amazing. You can tell that a lot of work has been put in to creating the displays. I actually feel like I am in Hogwarts! I wish it could look like this all the time”.

Classmate Aaliyah Talat added: “I think the Harry Potter theme is even better than the Alice in Wonderland theme for World Book Day last year, which I didn’t think was possible! I can’t wait to dress up in something magical.”

Library co-ordinator Sarah Preece and sixth form student Owen Bond came up with the idea to spark enthusiasm for books and reading. The school raised £1,000.

Props were made including more than 300 wand boxes by hand for Ollivanders wand shop, boxes which we filled with chocolate frogs, old jars were filled with potions and Owen’s dad and brother used recycled wood to make shop fronts.

Mrs Preece said: “All the months of planning and hard work have fully paid off. We were so proud to see the reactions of the students on Monday morning, they absolutely loved it!

“Our main aim was to enhance the learning of the students by being excited about reading and of course the Harry Potter books. Thornleigh Salesian College has truly been transformed into Hogwarts, and has become an even more magical place to learn.”

Owen said: “Our vision from 12 months ago has come to life! Already many students have been inspired to write for pleasure and bury their heads in a Harry Potter book.”

Alison Burrowes, headteacher, said: “Never in my wildest dreams did I think they would achieve what they have done. It is breathtaking and I can’t thank everyone enough!”

Don't miss our super World Book Day supplement in The Bolton News on Saturday